During the second World War, the US military used standard-sized shipping containers to carry cargo. This helped to expedite transport and save money. Today, these containers are used by the shipping industry for both moving and storing cargo.
Shipping containers are made from aluminum and steel. They are painted with marine grade paint to protect them from damage from external influences. They are available in standard sizes of 20 feet and 40 feet. Some containers also have security seals. These seals are color-coded and are generally used in conjunction with standard locking mechanisms.
Shipping containers come in a variety of colors. These colors help to make the container easier to identify. They also help to create a brand association. However, you must also be aware that colors can fade or get damaged quickly. Consequently, you will need to keep your container in top condition to ensure that your cargo is protected during its travels.
The first shipping container was actually a steel box that was easy to load. It was made by a truck driver named Malcolm McLean. He and his siblings formed the McLean Trucking Co. The business grew steadily over the next ten years. In the late 1960s, containers really took off. In fact, it helped to contribute to the globalization of commerce during the second half of the 20th century.
In the late 1960s, the United States military needed to get equipment to its troops quickly. The solution was to convert two World War II oil tankers into container ships. The ships would carry 58 containers across the country from New Jersey to Texas.
A modern shipping container is a storage unit with a double door. This allows for a wider loading area. In addition, the doors must be level. If they are not level, they can damage the cargo. The doors also need to be able to close securely. If they are locked, the cargo cannot be unloaded until it has been opened at the destination.
A shipping container also has a floor that is made from cross members. These cross members create a small space between the ground and the flooring of the shipping container. This helps to prevent moisture from getting into the shipping container. The floor is also usually infused with insecticides to protect against rodent damage.
During the manufacturing process, rubber gaskets are fitted to the door. These gaskets prevent water from entering the shipping container. However, if they are damaged, the door may not close. This can cause water damage to the cargo and may even be a sign that the container is opening.
Aside from the floor, the door may have a lock rod that enables the doors to be closed. The door also has a handle that slides over the handle and locks the door. These lock rods are also welded in place. If they are not welded, the door will not operate properly.
The first shipping container ship was the SS Ideal X. It was a steel container that carried 58 containers from New Jersey to Texas. This was the first container ship that met the ISO standards for size, construction, and durability.
